Outemu Crystal vs. KTT Peach
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the KTT Peach switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Crystal and the KTT Peach are two popular options worth considering. The Crystal switch, a linear switch, stands out with its unique combination of a fairly elastic type feel and medium-light weight, resulting in a truly distinct typing experience. Additionally, the Crystal switch delivers a neutral sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a quieter keyboard. On the other hand, the Peach switch also falls under the category of linear switches and boasts several prized characteristics. Typing on the Peach switch offers a syrupy smooth experience, accompanied by a deep, thocky sound profile that is sure to delight. Both switches have their own distinctive qualities, and choosing between them boils down to personal preference. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Crystal and the KTT Peach both utilize polycarbonate as their top housing material, providing them with similar sound profiles. Due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, both switches produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This makes them ideal for those who prefer a more clear and resonant sound while typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, adding to the aesthetic appeal of both switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, they differ. The Crystal features a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Peach utilizes nylon. This contrast in materials leads to differences in sound profiles. Typing on the Crystal, with its polycarbonate bottom housing, results in a deeper and fuller sound. On the other hand, the Peach's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, if the bottom housing has a significant impact on your typing experience, you may prefer the Crystal for its deeper sound or the Peach for its softer sound.
It is important to note that the qualities brought by the top and bottom housings of a switch are split between the two in cases where they differ. The bottom housing has a more pronounced impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, although the polycarbonate top housing in both switches provides similar sound profiles, the differences in their bottom housings offer users the opportunity to choose between a deeper and fuller sound (Crystal) or a softer and more absorbent sound (Peach) depending on their personal preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the KTT Peach linear switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the force required to trigger a keystroke is equal for both switches. However, when it comes to bottoming out, there is a slight difference. The Outemu Crystal has a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it slightly heavier compared to the KTT Peach, which has a bottom out force of 53 grams.
Considering the weight of the switches, the Outemu Crystal falls on the medium-light side with both its actuation force and bottom out force. This makes it suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time, such as for work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, the KTT Peach also has a medium-light actuation force of 45 grams, but its slightly lighter bottom out force of 53 grams may make it a preferred option for those who desire a slightly stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience.
Overall, while the actuation forces are the same for both switches, the bottom out forces differ slightly, with the Outemu Crystal being slightly heavier. Depending on individual preferences, both switches offer a range of forces that cater to those who prefer lighter typing experiences or those who enjoy a slightly heavier keystroke feel.
Travel distance
The Outemu Crystal linear switch and the KTT Peach linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel a similar distance travelled from the top to the bottom. In terms of travel distance, both switches offer the same experience, providing a consistent and comfortable typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40, whereas the KTT Peach comes in at $2.91.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
The Outemu Crystal linear switch is known for its unique, linear typing experience. It has a fairly elastic feel and a medium-light weight, providing a distinctive tactile sensation. When it comes to sound, the Crystal switch has a neutral sound profile, lacking any specific acoustic characteristics such as a chirpy or high-pitched sound. On the other hand, the KTT Peach linear switch offers a syrupy smooth typing experience. It has a deep, thocky sound profile, making it stand out in terms of sound. The Peach switch is described as having a low-pitched sound, which means it has a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. It also has a neutral feel, offering a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile suitable for various purposes. In terms of feel, the Crystal switch is polished, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Peach switch, on the other hand, is described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience.
Overall, the Outemu Crystal and KTT Peach switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Crystal switch provides a unique linear typing experience with a neutral sound profile, while the Peach switch offers a syrupy smooth typing experience with a deep, thocky sound profile. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps. If you're looking for a similar typing experience to the Crystal switch, the Peach switch might be a good alternative as it offers a neutral feel and a low-pitched sound profile, which can provide a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the KTT Peach linear switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences. If you value a unique, linear typing experience with a medium-light weight and a neutral sound profile, then the Crystal switch is an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a syrupy smooth typing experience with a deep, thocky sound profile, then the Peach switch would be more suitable.
When it comes to sound, the Crystal switch offers a chirpy and high-pitched acoustic signature, which sets it apart from other switches. If you prefer a sharper and crisper sound, the Crystal switch would be a good fit. On the other hand, the Peach switch has a low-pitched sound profile, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. If you enjoy a richer and more balanced sound, the Peach switch would be a better option.
In terms of feel, the Crystal switch has a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. With reduced friction and smooth key travel, the Crystal switch provides a sleek feel. On the other hand, the Peach switch offers a mild typing experience, providing a gentle feel that appeals to a wide range of users.
Ultimately, the decision between the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the KTT Peach linear switch boils down to personal preference. Consider your desired typing experience in terms of weight, sound, and feel. Whether you prioritize a unique feel and neutral sound profile with the Crystal, or prefer a syrupy smooth feel and deep thocky sound profile with the Peach, both switches have their own distinct qualities to enhance your typing experience.
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